Mesopotamian civilization is credited with being one of the first successful river-valley civilizations in the ancient world; it is credited with the invention of many of the fundamental aspects that still compose human societies today. Yet, no Mesopotamian Empire lasted as long as that of EgyptWhat were some of the factors (such as environmental, cultural , or military) that contributed to the rise and fall of Mesopotamian civilizations, between 2300 BCE and 500 BCE? Trace the development of Mesopotamian civilizations from the first Sumerian city-states through the Persian Empire. Which societies in Mesopotamia were the most successful ? Which were the least? Why?